My brakes went out last week! What's wrong?

Question

I drove my car last Tuesday, the brakes were fine. Then, I went to drive it to work on Wednesday and the brakes were almost completely gone!! I had to push the brake pedal all the way to the floor and even then they only worked a little. I haven't taken it in yet, and no I haven't driven it since then. I'm just afraid that it will cost a ton. I looked at the brake pads and they only look a little worn (normal). What could make my brakes go from great to non-existent in a day??? Is it going to be expensive to fix?

Answer 1

it sounds like it has run out of brake fluid  not knowing what sort of car you have got it is hard to say but check under the bonnet for the brake res ,the brake line you had replased could be leaking. good luck34

Answer 2

when was the last time you changed your brakes.........when you drove it did you hear a grinding noise or anthing if so you need to change your brakes.....if not you may have a leak in your brake line and will need brake fluid

Answer 3

Master Cylinder, not sure of the cost. And even new lines can be faulty.

Answer 4

It could possibly be that you have lost all your brake fluid. The new brake line might have a small leak in it somewhere.  

Answer 5

Your brake system has a hydraulic leak somewhere. This could be one of several components. It definately is not the vacuum issue, so scratch that one. You also wont see fluid on the floor unless it's a steel brake line leaking. I dont know of any shop that will charge you a ton to replace what is leaking, on the other hand, I doubt they will do it for free either, as shops have bills to pay as well. You should take it to a reputable national chain shop where you live that offers a free inspection for the brakes. That wont cost you a ton. Then the shop will go over their findings with you and present you with an estimate. Then you can make a decision to drive with bad brakes or have them repaired.

Answer 6

Check the brake fluid it is probably low.

Answer 7

Check your brake fliud level in the master cyclinder, if it is low you may have a bad master cyclinder or a vacumn booster.  Also check that the vacumn hose is still good that connects to the master cyclinder.  As far as cost it depends on were you take it. You may call around to different garages and find out what they charge per hour before you go.

Answer 8

All the answers are good. Check your garage floor where you park your car. Any leak will have a wet spot on the floor. this should narrow your search.

Answer 9

Your lost some brake fluid. The pads arent the issue if the peddle drops to the floor. Might be a problem with the master cylinder which is the worst case. Could be a cracked line on the calliper which would be a simple cheap fix. Or somebody could be trying to kill you and cut them. Turn your car on and pump your brakes and see if fluid comes out anywhere.